IdeaPod Spring 2012

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SPRING 2012

THE PITTSBURGH PROMISE’S

SPECIAL GRADUATION ISSUE

BY ALL MEANS,

SPECIAL GRADUATION MESSAGE

KEEP MOVING! Saleem Ghubril Executive Director The Pittsburgh Promise

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Congrats From Franco Harris

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Lights, Camera, Action!

Education is a primary topic in our local, regional, and national discourse, and it evokes well reasoned ideas, deeply held convictions, and fervently felt emotions.

Behind the differing views are thoughtful and caring people who want to do that which is right by our kids and which ensures our global economic and intellectual competitiveness.

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The Future is Bright

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Pittsburgh’s Got Promise

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Career Spotlight: Art Therapy

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Parents of The Promise

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In Their Own Words

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Ask the President

When we launched our work, we essentially made three promises: 1) to provide PPS students with up to $40,000 to pursue higher education 2) to reform our urban public schools so that students are prepared for success and 3) to develop our urban neighborhoods so that where we live and go to school are places that are conducive to learning. In light of news stories about budget cuts, school closures, staff furloughs, student performance, and street violence, one would fairly ask, “How is this promise working out for you?”

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Pittsburgh Neighborhoods

In our first four years of operation we have seen some very encouraging results and trends that more than suggest that we are on the right track. Nearly 3,200 students have received approximately $25 million in scholarships from The Pittsburgh Promise. In addition, according to research conducted by CEO’s For Cities, if we are able to add 16,500 additional college educated residents to our region’s population, the related annual economic growth will exceed $1.5 billion. The Pittsburgh Promise is on track to do that in the next ten years.

Also noteworthy is the improvement in the quality of urban schools. Since 2007 we moved from having only 39% of our schools meeting federal standards to 70% in 2010.

RAND also discovered that over 450 new families enrolled their middle school children in Pittsburgh Public Schools since the inception of The Promise. The top three reasons for their choice are: The Pittsburgh Promise, the hard work of reform that is taking place in our district, and the diversity of culture and educational programming available in Pittsburgh.

While we have much to celebrate, and this issue of Idea Pod is dedicated to sharing the good news, much hard work remains ahead of us and the stakes are high. The news stories are true, the struggles are real, and too many kids are falling prey to political expediencies. While feeling frustrated is appropriate and justified, posturing, politicking, and pandering are not. This work is for the strong of heart, the serious of mind, and the gentle of

20 Volunteer

Franco Harris, Chairman NFL Hall of Fame Owner, Super Bakery, Inc.

Edith Shapira, MD Psychiatrist, Private Practice

Candi Castleberry-Singleton Chief Inclusion and Diversity Officer, UPMC

Kiya Tomlin Parent Volunteer

Mark Laskow Managing Director and CEO, Greycourt & Co. Linda Lane, EdD Superintendent, Pittsburgh Public Schools Anne Lewis Chair, Oxford Development Company Pamela Little-Poole Family and Community Organizer, A+ Schools David and Nancy Malone President and CEO, Gateway Financial Group Martin McGuinn Chairman and CEO (Retired), Mellon Financial Services Luke Ravenstahl Mayor, City of Pittsburgh

Olga Welch, EdD Dean, School of Education Duquesne University Demetri Zervoudis Senior Vice President, Bayer Material Science Grant Oliphant, Ex-Officio President and CEO, The Pittsburgh Foundation Saleem Ghubril Executive Director, The Pittsburgh Promise The Pittsburgh Promise is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation and is an affiliate of The Pittsburgh Foundation The Pittsburgh Promise is a partnership between Pittsburgh Public Schools, the City of Pittsburgh, UPMC (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center), and other key funders.

David and Cindy Shapira Chairman, CEO and President Giant Eagle, Inc

spirit. It is a marathon that requires discipline, work that we as a city and a school system are currently doing. It is a marathon we fully intend to finish and win.

In the meantime, I am delighted to take a deep breath and say to our 2012 graduates “Way to go.” I am honored to be one of your cheerleaders. You have finished one leg of the race, with many more to come. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, “If you can’t fly, run. If you can’t run, walk. If you can’t walk, crawl, but by all means, keep moving.” Keep moving.

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CONGRATS FROM NFL HALL-OF-FAMER FRANCO HARRIS

A single scholarship can touch thousands of lives, mine did. A college scholarship put me on a path to a career in football, and it prepared me for a career in business. It is easy to lose sight of what one donation can do, one scholarship can give, and one person can accomplish. To maintain that broader perspective, we need to be constantly reminded of individual stories of triumph, within The Pittsburgh Promise, and beyond. This Idea Pod issue is full of those stories at their very beginnings.

I am inspired to think of all that you can achieve.

I am proud to congratulate the students of the 100th graduating class of Pittsburgh Public schools. You will be the first of many to have the opportunity for a $40,000 scholarship. I am also proud to congratulate the first class of Promise scholars to graduate from four-year colleges. I have faith that you will continue to make your schools, and Pittsburgh, proud. To those students still in school, I anticipate that I will have the chance to applaud you all in the upcoming years.

As the Chairman of the Board of The Pittsburgh Promise, I am honored to be a small part of your educational process, and your journey. The impact that each of you will have remains to be seen; and I anticipate that impact to be remarkable!

Franco Harris Chairman of the Board, The Pittsburgh Promise Member, NFL Hall of Fame Owner, Super Bakery Inc.

2 spring 2012

LIGHTS, CAMERA

ACTION! FOUR TIPS TO HELP MAKE YOUR HIGH SCHOOL “MOVIE” A BLOCKBUSTER

This magazine is full of the spectacular news that The Promise scholarship has doubled to up to $40,000! Let’s step back for a second before you start buying sweatshirts for your future alma mater.

The Promise can’t send out a check until you apply, and get accepted, to college. What is the most important part of your college application? The essay? Nope. The interview? No. Your SAT score?

Negative. How about recommendations? Uh-uh.

The most important part of your college application is your performance in high school. It’s like the difference between seeing a preview and seeing an actual movie. Sure, the preview gives you a sneak peek, but the two hours that you spend in the theater allow you to decide if the film is a flop or a hit. Here are four tips for students who are looking to make their high school experience a hit.

1. Get Organized There’s a lot to juggle in high school and remaining organized is a must. Some great ways to stay organized are to: •Make a schedule and stick to it. At the beginning of each week make a list of all the things you need to do. Include homework as well as activities, chores, and fun. Think about how much time each activity will take, due dates, and priorities. Make sure that you finish your top priorities on time or early if possible. You may want to keep your schedule on a dry-erase board and color code it. For example, homework might be written in red and club meetings in blue.

•Use an agenda that you can carry with you. With so much to do it’s easy to forget exactly what is scheduled at noon on Wednesday.

idea pod 3 •Stock up on supplies. Agendas, dry-erase boards, binders, and Post-Its are all great tools for staying organized. Try a few different types of supplies and stick with the ones that help you the most.

2. Work Hard Academics are a key component of high school and it’s important that you’re always doing your best.

Start by choosing the right classes. This may mean that instead of a PSP course you push yourself to try CAS or AP. Don’t go easy on yourself, tough classes in high school will prepare you to be successful in college. To excel in your classes it is necessary that you pay attention, take notes, do your homework, study for tests, and don’t procrastinate on long-term assignments. If you’re having a hard time keeping up, talk to a teacher about tutoring or ways that you can better prepare. If school seems like a breeze, don’t let yourself off the hook. It’s important for you to find ways to push yourself and stay fresh!

3. Get Involved Your high school experience will be much better if you make time to participate in extra-curricular activities. If your school doesn’t have a club that fits your interests, try to find a community group that does, or even start one yourself! If you’re already in a club or two, then get more involved!

Run for leadership positions and help shape the club activities. You will need to leave time for academic responsibilities so be sure to choose your activities carefully.

4. Ask for Help!

Responsibility doesn’t mean managing everything on your own; asking for help at the right time shows that you’re a mature young adult. Here are a few places you can go when you need a helping hand: •School Staff Members. Staff can help you in many ways, including organizing your schedule, giving suggestions about time management, and helping you apply to college. The adults at your school are there to help you navigate high school; don’t be afraid to utilize them!

•Other Students. You can work with other students in your classes to form study groups or ask questions if you’re stumped on homework. Some schools have peer mentoring programs that partner freshmen up with upper classmen.

•Websites. There are many sites to help you be successful in high school and beyond. Check out www.collegeboard.com for information about SATs, scholarships, and the college search process.

The best way to make sure that you get The Promise scholarship to attend your dream college is to do well in high school. Use these four tips to help make sure that both your “previews” (SAT scores, essay, interview, etc.) and your “full-length movie” (high school performance) are fantastic.

Tanya Graham

Manager of College and Career Readiness, Pittsburgh Public Schools

A pREsidENt REdEfiNEs LEAdERship

LEARN MORE

BeAPresident.com

4 spring 2012

FUTURE

the

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four graduating promise scholars share their post-college dreams

NICK BECKAS

Duquesne University Graduation: May 4, 2012 BS: Health Sciences MS: Occupational Therapy (Fall 2012) PERSONAL I plan on staying in Pittsburgh to remain close to my family. I will graduate with a master’s degree in occupational therapy and I’d like to further my education by either pursuing a doctorate in occupational therapy or an additional degree in biomechanics or neuroscience. I would like to one day specialize in hand occupational therapy and maybe open up my own practice in the region.

REGIONAL I’d love to see Pittsburgh’s public education system evolve to the point where everyone can proudly admit that they graduated from Pittsburgh Public Schools. This is something that I am proud to admit currently and I want that to be shared by many others. We are a part of a history that many of our peers cannot boast, and I think it is something we should cherish. I want to be part of improving the region to achieve that vision. Changing Pittsburgh is obviously not something I can do alone, but something that I can take part in. If everyone can influence at least one person in their community to be a better person and a more active member of society, the region will benefit as a whole.

GLOBAL My vision of a better world would be one where there is no longer an “us vs. them” mentality. A better world would be one in which we can all recognize that we share one common characteristic, humanity. I hope that college graduates of the future will have equal opportunities to succeed in life, and no one will ever be held back from achieving their dream because of inherent differences. People like me will be able to graduate from college and not feel pressure to achieve someone else’s expectations. This ultimately means that everyone will be proud of who they are without the pressure to be someone else.

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JOSHUA DEVINE

Penn State University Graduation: December 22, 2012 BS: Community, Environment, & Development PERSONAL I am most looking forward to marrying the love of my life, who I met my freshmen year at Penn State, the day before my college graduation. I am also excited to start graduate school during the fall semester of 2013. During graduate school I hope to work on community development issues relating to sustainable energy and community revitalization.

My dream for my future is to continually feed this passion. I want to be an executive in the non-profit sector representing an organization dedicated to community development and environmental advocacy.

REGIONAL There are three things that are of great importance to me concerning the future of the Pittsburgh region; energy, entrepreneurship, and education. My vision is for Pittsburgh to become a city that creates a standard for energy efficiency and sustainability so that the community is livable and healthy. I see Pittsburgh being a city of entrepreneurs with “out of the box” innovations that will excite continual economic growth. Such innovation, however, can’t manifest without education. I can be a part of this vision by remaining educated on the changing issues, policies, and goals of Pittsburgh. It will ultimately take a substantial amount of people to pursue a better region and we can all start by doing our part, using what we have and what we know, to make a difference.

GLOBAL A better world is a world that creates an agenda dedicated to striving consistently and purposefully towards equity. I would like the world to be a place that guarantees fair access to education, jobs, economic success, and environmental health to all its inhabitants. If the world can embrace an attitude of inclusion, then opportunities will become overwhelmingly available and the phrase, “The Sky is the Limit” will be the truth.

JULIA CAHILL

Carnegie Mellon University Graduation: May 20, 2012 BFA: Electronic and Time Based/ Performance Art PERSONAL Following graduation, I am so excited about being a part of the “Feminist and…” show at the Mattress Factory Museum in the fall of 2012. It is a dream come true to have the opportunity to meet and work with amazing women artists from different generations and a variety of regions all over the world! I cannot imagine my life, let alone the world, without art. It was such an important part of my education and it shaped my future. My dream is to make sure that every child gets the same chance to discover the possibilities of artistic expression. This time next year, I hope to be fulfilling my dream in Pittsburgh by working in a youth arts program as well as maintaining my personal artistic practice.

REGIONAL In 25 years, I hope to see Pittsburgh as the country’s role model of a healthy and successful public school system. To me, this means providing students with a well-rounded education that allows every child to find their passion, create a dream for their future, and build self-respect that makes no dream seem too big. By working in a youth arts program, I hope that I can help to provide the well-rounded and creative education that our city’s children deserve.

GLOBAL I whole-heartedly believe that if there were better education systems throughout the world, so much would improve. An equal chance for every single person to have a great education would allow room for so many new dreams, possibilities, and the selfrespect that is needed to have a happy and healthy community. I dream that the future world will focus on making higher education a possibility for every single high school student.

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REGIONAL I would love to see Pittsburgh’s city officials become more involved with the people that they protect and represent. I’d like us to be a family looking for better solutions together. I’d like to start talking to more city officials myself, going to more meetings, beginning gentle conversations. My vision, ultimately, is to bring everyone together. I consider myself an activist and I hope to be more active in Pittsburgh, as I used to be, before college took over my life. The first step is to get back out there, to be heard and seen; to help cultivate, reshape, and seed young revolution.

I would like to influence Pittsburgh’s younger crowd to believe that there is always need for our voice and our leadership.

DAEJA BAKER

Chatham University Graduation: May 21, 2012 BFA: Creative Writing MFA: Poetry (May 2013) PERSONAL I am enrolled in an accelerated master’s program which means that although I will graduate this May with an undergraduate degree in creative writing, I will still be in school until next year completing my MFA in poetry. Afterwards I am rather excited to hopefully start traveling, performing, and digging into the world even more. I want to do everything! I would love to go abroad and teach poetry and other reading, writing, and speaking skills to children who have less educational opportunities than we do in America. It is my dream that hope will be spread through words and I hope I can make a career out of that!

GLOBAL My vision of the world is similar to that of Pittsburgh.

It is hard to just quote the Beatles and say, “Come Together,” but I do believe that we can work towards more tolerance. I wish for a world in which we use our resources more intelligently and find more understanding in ourselves. I hope for the world to be less cynical and more dream-catching. My vision for the world: to let its constituents know that they have a choice in creating their own vision. Not enough people know that. Stimulating dreams… I am always on board for that!

Following the Un-Apology Phase For John Mayer and Waiting on the World to Change A Poem by Daeja D. Baker I. The promise: I’ll apologize for the world awaking in the night looking out the window up to the Pittsburgh lights dazzling under the cottonpicked skyline of stars and grand-rapid moon, praying for the sky to sweep us from our lives if only for a dream, for this one mid night time. I’ll apologize for the world that we wrap like a gift, an open hand saying: “This is yours! Do with it as you please.”

I’ll apologize for being so polite as to not say:

“Take care of it, go forth, paint peace on the raging consolations—It’s never too late for change.”

I’ll apologize for not giving you the after high school notice of how we all crawl like ants scurrying to places we didn’t know were there—I apologize for not telling you to dream more and to get lost. I apologize for not getting lost with you.

Just in on the news monitor floating above our bloated minds, captivating our revolution, just in on the monitor, on

the lonely precipice of change—just in to say hello—hello future: just here, you’ve arrived to salvage the world.

II. A heavy un-apology for letting you go forth and do what we’ve not done before this moment before every midnight reached, until now, before we command “Go forth. Make peace.

Be dreamers.”

I don’t apologize for the world we let you take into your arms

and say, “I will have you and I will be free.” No need to apologize for the crest-salted moon man hanging on the sprinkling crescent Moon Walking the stars.

Filtering the sky-pierced moon for you—see the brightness, the light you hold in.

Thank you world for, until now, holding me.

Together. Together, we proceed.

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Why Clarion? “ Internship opportunities – a grade in academics doesn’t mean anything unless you have experience.” “ Clarion is preparing me for a career I will love.” “ Undergraduate research – something that is unheard of at other schools.”

Choose Clarion.

Clarion University is an affirmative action equal opportunity employer.

“ You can get to know your professors. They know you by name.” “ You can feel at home at Clarion.”

These are just a few things our students say.

800-672-7171 (selection 1)

Apply online at

www.clarion.edu/admiss

A member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education

8 spring 2012

Pittsburgh’s AN EXCITING, ENERGIZED FUTURE AWAITS YOU When President Obama chose Pittsburgh as the location for the 2009 G-20 Summit, a gathering of political leaders from the world’s largest economies, he pointed to the region’s economic and environmental transformation as the reason. It was a high point in Pittsburgh’s decades-long effort to shed its reputation as the “Smoky City.” Since then, the positive buzz about Pittsburgh has continued to grow, and more than once we’ve been named the “Most Livable City” in the country.

Why does this matter? If you were to ask your grandparents to name the predominant industry in Pittsburgh when they were young, they’d say steel. They might recall the harsh consequences that Pittsburgh and its people faced when an industry that provided employment for hundreds of thousands collapsed seemingly overnight. Many people had to leave Pittsburgh to find work.

Pittsburgh in 2012 is a very different place.

It now has diverse industries as a foundation.

No one industry, like steel in years past, accounts for more than 20 percent of the economy. Pittsburgh is still an important and successful steel producer, but we do a whole lot more than that. Pittsburgh has recently experienced the same economic downturn, or recession, as the rest of the nation. However, we have been far better able to weather it because we are not reliant on one group of companies for jobs. This is important to

understand because it means that there are a lot of different job opportunities available for current high school and college students contemplating their future careers.

Adults love to ask students what career they might want to pursue. It’s an important question to think seriously about long before you actually need to go out and find a job. But it can be a hard question to answer. What kind of jobs are there? What do my own natural talents and interests prepare me to do? What kind of subjects do I need to study?

The Allegheny Conference created a website, www.ImaginePittsburgh.com, to help call attention to the wide variety of jobs available and to make it easier to explore and learn about the region’s key industry sectors such as advanced manufacturing, energy, financial and business services, healthcare and life sciences, and information and communications technology. On ImaginePittsburgh, there are individual profiles of people in a wide array of companies and industries, and these offer personal insights on real-life career exploration.

The website brings together, in one easily accessed portal, all of the online job openings across 10 counties in southwestern Pennsylvania. Right now there are more than 13,000 jobs listed.

If you dig a little deeper into the job listings, you’ll quickly see that while there are many jobs requiring a four-year college degree, there

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Got Promise are also a lot of high-paying jobs that don’t.

These positions are projected to grow far faster than any other kinds of jobs and they all require more than a high school diploma.

Sometimes the requirement is in the form of a certificate or multiple certificates (called “stackable” credentials); for others it is a twoyear degree.

One thing that’s clear is that just getting a degree without a plan for what it can prepare you to gainfully do is not likely to be a fruitful path. It’s also worth considering that your choices coming out of high school don’t need to be seen as binary: college or something else. You can choose both. There are lots of pathways to a college degree that do not mean immediate enrollment in a four-year program.

Here’s an example: you may have heard recently about Pittsburgh’s energy economy.

Our region is home to some 750+ companies with a combined $19 billion contribution to the economy. Energy, as a sector, is a group of industries that needs all levels of talent from certificates and associate degrees to bachelor’s, master’s, and even doctoral degrees. The sector covers a wide array of energy sources: coal, natural gas, nuclear energy, wind and solar, green buildings, smart distribution and transmission systems, and new energy solutions coming from breakthrough companies. A two-year engineering degree can potentially land you a job in any of these industries, and chances

are good that an employer might be willing to not only pay you a salary, but also contribute to the cost of having you attain a bachelor’s degree.

We are part of a rapidly changing global economy, and one of the few things we can actually predict with accuracy is that it will continue to change. It is smart to consider how you can prepare yourself for career success in this kind of environment. To get started, visit ImaginePittsburgh.com and spend some time exploring its resources.

Have fun imagining what your future could look like here. Pittsburgh’s got promise, and we want you to stay here and be a part of its exciting future.

Laura S. Fisher

Senior Vice President, Special Projects Allegheny Conference on Community Development

CHECK IT OUT ImaginePittsburgh.com

10 spring 2012

career

spotlight :: ART THERAPY This ongoing series will provide a glimpse into various careers, industries, and the people who pursue them.

“Art Therapy found me,” says Dana Elmendorf, Assistant Professor in Art Therapy at Seton Hill University. “Communicating through art helped me get through some difficult times, and sharing the process with others has been exciting. When I started in the career it was not well-known. Since that time, it has been trending upward, particularly in the last five years.” Art therapy is a form of expressive therapy that uses the creative process of making art to address a person’s physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. Art therapists need to be exceptional listeners with a passion for art and a strong desire to help people. Therapists use the arts to reach both children and adults, provide stress relief to the general community, prevent bullying after school, or simply as a mode of selfdiscovery. In addition, current medical research is being done to see how the brain develops when art is made, and how art can reduce pain and stress.

A Master’s degree is required to work as an art therapist, and graduates have found employment in domestic violence shelters, group homes for the mentally challenged, retirement communities, and after-school programs. Art is a universal language, our first written form of communication; it engages and promotes life-long problem solving skills, visual storytelling, and emotional response.

“I like helping people, being nice to people, and making people happy,” says Melanie May, who will graduate from Ohio University this year with a Bachelors in Fine Arts and a Psychology minor.

Ms. May plans to go on to earn her Master’s in Art Therapy and eventually become board certified.

Melanie discovered art therapy by doing a research paper her freshman year, where she interviewed Stacy de la Alas, a certified art therapist at Art Expression, Inc., an inclusive afterschool program that uses the components of art therapy to facilitate positive socialization. To gain more insight, experience, and to see if Art Therapy was a good career fit, Melanie volunteered at Art Expression, Inc. in Pittsburgh and Passion Works in Ohio. This summer she will be volunteering at Hope Studios in Alaska.

For Lisa Heap, Vice President of Art Expression, Inc., and an art therapist in the Mount Lebanon School District program, “It was like trying on coats.

I took one art history class in high school, which sparked my interest in the arts. I took many courses in college, to try on different careers; I looked into social work, psychology, and criminology.” Ms. Heap graduated from Capital University with an art therapy degree, and then went on to get her Master’s in Art Therapy at Seton Hill University. Says Lisa, “My experience with a non-profit has been fulfilling; I am teaching skills like socialization, coping, and communication in a fun and distinctive way. It is rare in one’s life to find a program from which one derives not only personal but professional satisfaction, and Art Expression has done that for me. In my professional life, it has given me the drive to educate others about the field of art therapy and overall, to

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help children in both the school systems and the military.�

It seems for Lisa, Melanie, and Dana, the biggest rewards of an Art Therapy career are the looks on the faces of the children and individuals served.

Their faces become open books with inspired looks.

Moods change from frustration to peace and calm.

Permission is given to explore inner realities, be creative, and share masterpieces of the self with friends in a safe manner.

Victoria Dym

Executive Administrator Art Expression, Inc.

learn more Visit the American Art Therapy Association at:

www.arttherapy.org

12 spring 2012

Looking for a CAREER you love?

We promise to help you find it.

Q: Why the automotive field?

A: My dad is an automotive technician and I watched him be very successful in the industry, and at the same time enjoy what he does.

Q: Why did you choose to go to Rosedale?

A: When I toured Rosedale I really liked their location and facilities, and it’s a huge bonus to earn an Associate’s Degree in Specialized Technology in only 16 months. They also honor the Pittsburgh Promise Scholarship which made it a very easy decision. Unlike traditional schools, the “hands-on” experience is what sold me.

Q: How would you describe your learning experience at RTI? A: The instructors are very knowledgeable, they have formal training and field experience in the subjects they are teaching. Not only do they teach you all of the automotive repair basics but you also have the opportunity to learn and work on more advanced issues.

My favorite class was steering and suspension because of the large amount of lab work I was able to participate in.

RTI Automotive Technology Graduate Andrew Gmys 2010 Graduate of Brashear High School Pittsburgh Promise Recipient

Q: What advice would you give to others looking into a tech school?

A: Make sure it’s a learning environment that you will benefit from Rosedale’s “hands-on” environment was just that – “hands-on”. It was the environment I was looking for. I know I made the right choice; Rosedale has given me the tools to succeed.

AUTO • DIESEL • ELECTRICAL • HVAC 800-521-6262 www.RosedaleTech.org Like “Rosedale Tech” on RTI is an Equal Opportunity Educational Institution and Employer. Accredited Institution ACCSC and NATEF ASE Certified

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parents promise OF THE

We asked five parents to share their advice on raising Promise scholars.

David Cahill Father of Julia Cahill Carnegie Mellon University

April Manker Mother of Charlynn White Penn State University

How did you encourage Promise readiness?

Rebecca: We wanted to be well prepared when the time came for Ryan to enter college. We met with guidance counselors and attended a Pittsburgh Promise meeting at Perry during his junior year. Ryan was a natural student and he was dedicated to the Perry basketball team. He was pretty well prepared on his own.

Norita: I became aware of The Pittsburgh Promise about four years ago when my granddaughter was about to enter 9th grade. Our neighbor’s son signed up for The Promise and went to Duquesne. I talked with his mother about how much it helped their family. My neighborhood is full of working people. I saw what the scholarship did for that young student, and I knew that was what I wanted her to strive for.

What was your Promise experience?

April: I found that the consistency was great; the funds are always there, on time. The scholarship incorporating books to the expenses was a blessing to us. As an engineering major, my daughter’s books can be very pricey.

Norita: My granddaughter and I always knew that she would go to college. For us, post secondary education was the only option; the scholarship did not determine that. However, it did make us decide to stay in Pittsburgh. We don’t want to owe hundreds of thousands of dollars in loans.

How did you encourage your child to manage a healthy lifestyle, personal funds, and grades during their time in college?

April: I’m a single parent so budgeting was instilled at a young age. What was a necessity became a blessing and a lesson in money and life

Rebecca Nelson

Norita Snyder

Mother of Ryan Nelson St. Vincent College

Grandmother of Shanda Snyder, CAPA

management. Academically, Charlynn is a tutor and she asks for tutoring herself when necessary.

Additionally, I encourage her to stay in contact with her advisors and change her course load if it’s too much or too little.

David: I am blessed to have children who do well in school on their own accord. Financially, I wish I could afford to provide my children with a complete education, but my kids had to work a bit while they were in school. In the end, I think it helped them to appreciate their time in college. If you work hard for something, you appreciate it.

What is your advice for overcoming obstacles in the application process or navigating the college experience?

April: It was all intimidating because it was so new-the planning, the expenses, everything at one point was intimidating. My advice is: pace yourself, set deadlines, and stay involved with advisors and financial aid offices. If something goes wrong there is always a way around it. Find the right person to talk to and ask as many questions as you need to.

David: My daughter was the first person in our family to attend college and she will be the first to graduate.

We went in blind and we felt very intimidated by the financial aid paperwork and the costs of art materials. My advice is don’t be too intimidated, there is always a way. We weeded through the paperwork as a family and got through it. The hassle will pay off for your child’s dreams.

Rebecca: I found that the financial aid and student loan processes were very overwhelming. I maintained close contact with the student financial aid office at the college.My advice is: include your child in the financial aid application process. Involving them now

14 spring 2012 will give them a better sense of that type of paper work for the future.

Norita: The application in itself isn’t intimidating, it is realizing that in less than a year I will be sending my sweet grandchild away on a new and exciting adventure. My advice to parents is: don’t be afraid to ask lots and lots of questions.

Think of the possibilities.

Tell us something about your experience in the Pittsburgh Public schools.

April: I feel that resources and educational programs have improved.

The schools also keep The Promise in the forefront of the curriculum which I think is very important.

Norita: The class of 2012 is a truly great milestone. I have been involved with my granddaughter’s schools from K through 12. I have always been impressed by her teachers, from Phillips Elementary, to Pittsburgh Frick 6-9, and now CAPA 6-12. Believe it or not, I attended PPS for all of my school years starting in 1940, graduating from Schenley High School on June 3, 1953. I consider myself blessed to see this 100th graduating class and to be a part of it with my granddaughter.

What do you hope that the future will look like for graduates in our region?

Rebecca: Simply put, I’d like the future of our region to bring job opportunities and advancement for those with bachelor’s degrees.

David: I hope that the kids that are going down the right path will get more recognition in the future for their hard work. My daughter’s field is the arts and I hope that Pittsburgh continues to be “up and coming” when it comes to the arts.

Norita: I dream that the PPS system will get bigger and better. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and with help from the parents and students, I see the Pittsburgh Public Schools celebrating a 200th year graduation!

Grow your talents and discover new ones. Expand your mind and explore the world. You’ll be amazed at the big thinking – and big opportunities – that unfold everyday at Chatham. Take classes in another country. Learn what it means to live green. Develop an entrepreneurial spirit. And get involved in the world on a more meaningful level. Small class sizes and dedicated professors let you soar and explore in unbelievable ways. Think you want to know more? Visit chatham.edu.

Chatham advantages • Experience a distinctive education built upon women’s leadership, environmental awareness, and global understanding • Study on our historic 39-acre Shadyside Campus, minutes from downtown, and at our 388-acre Eden Hall Campus north of Pittsburgh • SAT/ACT optional admissions policy available for first-year students • Nearly 95% of Chatham undergraduate students receive some form of merit or need-based scholarship • All first-year and transfer students are provided with a new 13 inch MacBook Pro laptop computer for use in the classroom and throughout our wireless campus • Most students have the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s and a master’s degree from Chatham in as few as five years from many of our graduate programs • Study abroad almost anywhere in the world during Maymester term, a full term, or a full year • Nine neighboring colleges and universities (including the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon University) that welcome cross-registration

Chatham University is eligible to accept the Pittsburgh Promise scholarship.

Big thinking for a big world

Woodland Road . . . Pittsburgh, PA 15232 800-837-1290 . . . admission@chatham.edu

chatham.edu

idea pod 15

EDINBORO UNIVERSITY

s g n i h T t a e r !

G e r e H H n e p Hap

Edinboro

Looking for a college with lower costs and challenging academics?

How about a place with exciting sports and plenty of things to do?

Maybe you want a school that offers a large variety of majors?

Searching for independance away from home? (but not too far!)

Find exactly what you are looking for at Edinboro University.

www.edinboro.edu 1-888-8GOBORO

Experience Edinboro University • $200 million in campus development • $5 million in scholarships • 19:1 Student Teacher Ratio • $6,240 in state tuition* • 220 student organizations • 17 varsity sports teams

*Fall 2011 and Spring 2012 rates.

scan with smartphone

experience.edinboro.edu • gradschool.edinboro.edu • apply.edinboro.edu • online.edinboro.edu One of the 14 Universities in Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education

“I LIKE BEING IN A PLACE WHERE YOUR FAITH IS STILL CONSIDERED VALUABLE.” ~ CALEB HENRY ’13

“A friend recommended Grove City College to me and I’m glad she did. What I like best is that I’m able to pursue all my passions here, especially astronomy.

Grove City

Faith remains at the center of everything, which encourages me to explore and learn more, including developing a deeper understanding of other denominations. The faculty challenge me daily.

And I’m also able to participate in the sports I love.

I’ve made some awesome friends here. As a freshman, I was welcomed immediately, and by sophomore year the campus felt like home.

It’s just been a great experience so far.”

www.gcc.edu/pgp | 724-458-2100

PittsburghPromise_Caleb_9x6.75_fc.indd 1

2/27/12 10:44 AM

in their own 16 spring 2012

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words AS WE CELEBRATE THE 100TH GRADUATING CLASS OF PITTSBURGH PUBLIC SCHOOLS, THEY SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS WITH US.

Looking Forward

Teireik Williams :: CAPA I’m excited for the opportunity to expand both mentally and creatively. I’m excited to pursue something that will enhance my experiences and use my talents.

Kayla Bartok :: Langley I think that I want to become a teacher and I can’t wait to learn more about education and teaching.

I’m also really excited for the chance to play soccer in college because it’s my passion. I’m looking forward to learning new things and becoming more independent.

Mark Byers :: Perry I am most excited to live on my own. There will be a new set of challenges and I am ready to face them!

JoAnna Dehler :: Carrick I cannot even begin to express my excitement about life after graduation. I plan to attend a four year college to pursue a major in environmental science and a minor in dance. I also aspire to travel abroad due to a life-changing experience I was fortunate enough to receive this past summer. I, along with three other students from Carrick, received a scholarship from the World Affairs Council to spend a month abroad in the country of our choice. That experience changed the way I look at everything and I want to continue to explore the world.

Jordana Rosenfield :: CAPA In five years I hope to be graduating from college with a meaningful and challenging opportunity to look forward to. I also hope that I will continue to be excited about social justice work.

Joshua Brown :: City Charter Five years from now I hope to be excited about buying a new home. I want to use my degree to get a well-paying job so I can achieve that.

18 spring 2012 Shealyn Williamson :: Allderdice I hope to be excited about going to a graduate school for industrial engineering and beginning my journey as a new and bright engineer.

Glancing Back:

Damarai Kirk :: Oliver Your freshman year is the most important year to do well, don’t mess it up!

Simone Deakings :: Westinghouse My parents, older brother, and dozens of relatives attended Westinghouse as well. Since they graduated I think a number of things have changed, especially since the 1980s. The number of students attending has changed, the crime rate has gone down, the school spirit is up, and the teacher’s faith in the students has improved.

Sheron Allen :: Westinghouse My advice to incoming high school freshmen is to stay focused all four years because they go really fast. Do not let the wrong people influence you, even if they are your friends, because you have to protect your future.

Jaquan Wheaton :: Carrick I have several family members who attended Pittsburgh Public Schools. After talking to my family, it is clear that the students have changed in the school system. Now, the students are more involved and want to succeed.

Sara Zahorchak :: Brashear It’s really easy to avoid challenging yourself in high school, but in the long run you’ll thank yourself if you do.

Taylor Sims :: Perry I believe that Pittsburgh Public Schools have changed in both positive and negative ways over the last four years. We are fortunate now to have The Pittsburgh Promise Scholarship. It’s unfortunate that since 2008 schools have had to close.

Advice to Freshman

Tayaunna Jackson :: Obama High school may seem like fun and games and in the hallways it may be, but know that when you arrive you are here to learn. You should take this opportunity to learn as much as you can to further your career choices.

Brandon Kunz :: Brashear Enjoy your time because it goes by quickly. Try to get along with everyone and graduate with good friends.

Tayaunna Jackson :: Obama When I was a freshman The Pittsburgh Promise was almost just an idea or a test and now everyone knows about it. I believe that the idea was a success and that our school’s teaching styles were modified so that students would understand The Promise.

Ethan Abramson :: Allderdice The Pittsburgh Public Schools have changed a lot since 2008. This change happens every year, because every year thousands of new students arrive and create the best part of Pittsburgh Public Schools, its diversity!

idea pod 19 Jasmine Johnson :: City Charter Class of 2012 is an extraordinary graduating class.

We will be the largest class to graduate from City Charter. We were the first senior class introduced to the Independent Learning Program. We had a lot to handle but we all remained determined and focused on our futures. That’s something that we can be proud of, even 100 years from now.

Aman Milliones-Roman :: Obama Although it may be inevitable for this generation, I feel that the amount of tolerance that my class exhibits will be interesting 100 years from now. The immature behavior of teasing and bullying those that are different from you has dropped dramatically in my academic environment.

Amanda Dugan :: Langley My class is full of life and diversity! We are like a mosaic of our generation. We use each other as a resource and motivate each other to expand our knowledge and our horizons.

Brea Whitaker :: Oliver I think the fact that we are the 100th class is history in itself. It’s an honor to be in that class at PPS.

Damian McCabe :: Oliver The fact that The Promise is offering $40,000 in scholarships to my class has really affected me; it makes me feel like there really are people in this world who truly care.

Ethan Abramson :: Allderdice I would like to thank all of The Pittsburgh Promise supporters. Sometimes it is hard to tell if donations make a difference, but I am here to say that they do.

Without The Pittsburgh Promise I might not be able to go to the school of my dreams, which I studied hard for four whole years to be prepared for, the school my mother went to, and the school that is going to make me successful.

JoAnna Dehler :: Carrick To all of The Pittsburgh Promise donors, Thank you. You are changing the lives of the students in the Pittsburgh Public School District. Students who thought that college was not an option now have the ability to enrich their lives with post-secondary education. You are making it possible for students who could only afford the minimum to now attend their dream school. The Promise is all about possibilities. Thank you for providing so many for me.

The Impact of The Promise Shealyn Wiliamson :: Allderdice I heavily considered going south for college but a scholarship of this magnitude is simply one that you cannot pass up. It made me appreciate the great schools that are here in my own backyard!

Taylor Sims :: Perry The increase in scholarship dollars is great because funding any college education is very expensive and the cost gets higher and higher every year. This will help my family immensely.

Promises made.

Promises kept.

St. Francis

For over 160 years, Saint Francis University has been keeping promises to students just like you. The promise of a better education and the promise of a better tomorrow. Today, 97% of all Saint Francis graduates are employed or in graduate school just six months after they graduate. That’s a promise kept. www.francis.edu | Reach Higher. Go Far.

20 spring 2012

How to make amazing friends, land the perfect job, foster your talents and travel the globe all while making the world a better place.

volunteer

T

he simple act of volunteering can transform a community in profound ways. Your talents, enthusiasm, and a little effort are all that you need to impact that change. Recognizing the connection between yourself and the larger community is the first step to making a difference and reaping all of the benefits that volunteering can offer you! We all know that the outcome of volunteering is a better, cleaner, happier world. The bonus good news is that volunteering also reaps incredible advantages to individuals who choose to make a difference.

On the practical side, volunteering can allow you new career opportunities. Whether you choose to build houses for those in need or lend a hand in an office, you can gain marketable skills, build your resume, and develop relationships for great recommendations. More importantly, volunteering in a field of interest allows you to test drive your passion. When you have the opportunity to explore the world through hands-on experience, you may find that you are more excited about a different job field or confirm that your passion is right for you.

Volunteering can contribute to your physical health and wellness. Whether you are clearing trails or constructing playgrounds, you will learn new skills and get in shape. Improving the outdoors by cleaning or creating green spaces can improve urban air quality, reduce littering, and encourage a community to be more active.

Service also introduces exciting and diverse people into your life. You will have the chance to make new friends not only with your fellow volunteers, but with the recipients of your work. If you like meeting new people, you will love this opportunity. For those who are shy, volunteering can allow you to interact with new people in a fun and easy environment.

On top of new skills, friends, job opportunities, and better health, volunteering can provide you with the opportunity to explore new places. There are a number of national and international organizations that provide room, board, and discounted travel arrangements to volunteers. Travelling to volunteer will not only put you in the location of your dreams, but also allow you to practice a second language,

meet locals, and truly immerse yourself in an unfamiliar culture. Whether you are interested in working on issues in the developing world or you are simply passionate about foreign cultures, service can be your ticket to world travel on a budget.

Personally, volunteering has given me so much. I had the opportunity to live briefly in France, Scotland, and Hawaii. Volunteering gave me memories and friends that will last a lifetime. I landed my first job after college and my first internship through service, and that led me to a career that is fulfilling and fun. There are unlimited personal benefits to acts of service but the true reward is making a tangible difference in someone’s life and allowing them to make a difference in yours. In the near future, decisions will be made about your post-secondary education and the professional field that is best for you. The importance of those decisions is undeniable. My advice to you is: take a moment to remember that life is not only defined by those choices, but by who you are and what you give back. As Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we do, but we make a life by what we give.” I hope that we can all create greater lives for ourselves and others through service. Take that first step and volunteer.

Lauren Bachorski

Special Projects Coordinator The Pittsburgh Promise

RESOURCES: •Match your volunteer interest with an organization www.pittsburghcares.org •Great blog post on international volunteering: www.vagablogging.net/4-tips-for-volunteering-your -way-around-the-world.html Look for this seal on the next page to find volunteer opportunities

idea pod 21

CELEBRATING PITTSBURGH’S PROMISE IS AN EVENT TO CELEBRATE THE FIRST GRADUATING CLASS OF STUDENTS FUNDED BY THE PITTSBURGH PROMISE. serving

Thursday, May 31, 2012 - High School Friday, June 1, 2012 - College :: VARIOUS NONPROFITS A DAY OF SERVICE

working

•Thank your community by giving back •Get to know the city’s nonprofits better •First 100 students win free access to Dance-a-thon

Thursday & Friday, June 7 & 8, 2012 :: YWCA DOWNTOWN PITTSBURGH A CAREER LAUNCH

igniting

•All-day job fair •Network with some of the best companies in Pittsburgh •This event is for Promise scholars only

Thursday, June 14-15, 2012 :: STAGE AE A DANCE-A-THON

raising

• All-night charity event featuring exclusive DJ’s, live music acts, food & drinks • Celebrity guests from Pittsburgh Steelers & more

Thursday, June 14, 2012 :: STAGE AE A GALA EVENT

• Once-in-a-lifetime charity event featuring Sasha Heinz as keynote speaker

• Well known guests from the business and philanthropic world

www.celebratingthepromise.org

22 spring 2012

I’m building a Rock Solid future.

You can too.

At Slippery Rock University you’ll find all the ingredients to help you succeed:

• state-of-the-art facilities • extensive, career-focused academic programs • undergraduate research opportunities, and • leadership training you’ll use for a lifetime.

You’ll study with incredible faculty members who will take a personal interest in your success and help you gain valuable skills both in-and-out of the classroom.

To begin building your Rock Solid future, give us a call today.

Cherie Olivis, a junior health services administration major from Pittsburgh

www.SRU.edu 800.929.4778 A member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education

rock solid education

idea pod 23

EXPERIENCE TRADITION. EXPECT SUCCESS. Find out why so many Pittsburgh students and their families have made Duquesne their top choice for higher education.

Pittsburgh, PA 15282 800-456-0590

www.duq.edu/promise

10 Schools of Study | Over 100 Undergraduate Programs 75 Graduate and Professional Programs

24 spring 2012 DR. ROBERT M. SMITH SLIPPERY ROCK UNIVERSITY The first piece of advice I’d give a student would be to learn how to learn. The world is changing. Careers that are attractive today may become obsolete in the future. If you know how to learn – and by that I mean mastering critical thinking skills and the ability to link concepts to application – you’ll have the tools to change as the marketplace changes. If all you bring to the table are a defined set of skills based on today’s knowledge, you’re going to be left behind.

I would advise students to know who they are. What are their interests, values? What are they good at? Our career services center has tests and counselors that can help with the exploration process. I often hear from students who want to be doctors, but they hate math and chemistry. That’s going to be difficult. Through career exploration they can identify paths that are a better fit. I’d encourage students to choose a career doing something they really enjoy. If you dread what you’re doing, everyone pays the price. Lastly, I’d remind them that as they mature, they might develop new interests. It’s OK to move in new directions.

MR. DENNIS WILKE ROSEDALE TECHNICAL INSTITUTE How many times have people asked you, “What do you want to be when you grow up?”

And, how many times have you groaned at the question and then answered, “I don’t know, I haven’t figured it out yet.” You’re not alone, it happens all the time. Part of the problem is that people think it’s an all-or-nothing shot. Let me tell you, that’s not true! These days people change jobs 11 times during their lifetime, on average, and often times 3 to 7 of those job changes are for new careers!

So, where do you start? Well, you may have heard the saying, “Success breeds success.” It’s so true. First, you’ll have the confidence you need to tackle something new. Second, other people notice when you do well, and they’ll have confidence in you too.

So, if you like to work with your hands and have some mechanical aptitude, you may be able to find your first success in the trades. Rosedale offers training in Automotive, Diesel, Electrical and HVAC Technology, and you can graduate in 16 months.

Who knows, success in a skilled trade job could lead to a management position, or even owning your own a business someday. It’s up to you. You just have to get started. Good Luck!

ask the president

We asked six Presidents of Promise-eligible schools this question:

“CHOOSING A CAREER PATH THAT WILL LEAD TO JOB OPPORTUNITIES UPON GRADUATION CAN BE A CHALLENGING AND SOMEWHAT CONFUSING COURSE TO CHART. WHAT GUIDANCE DO YOU HAVE FOR STUDENTS AS THEY CHOOSE A MAJOR/CAREER?”

idea pod 25 DR. KAREN WHITNEY CLARION UNIVERSITY The very best advice I can give students when they are making the important decision of choosing a major is to dream, explore, reflect, then prepare. To discover your dreams, first open yourself to explore all that a university has to offer, which will help you envision your dream.

Explore the curricular by taking a wide variety of courses – arts, sciences, humanities, business and technology – to be exposed to new ideas and to realize what gives you energy. Explore the co-curricular by joining student organizations and volunteering to serve in the community, which will broaden your interests and give you further exposure to diverse people and ideas, enriching your college years. Reflect on these experiences, which will help you identify how you would like to contribute to the community, to the country and to the world. That’s how you create your dream. With that knowledge you can select the major that will best prepare you for a career that allows you to live that dream. First dream, then explore, reflect and prepare.

DR. CHARLES J. DOUGHERTY DUQUESNE UNIVERSITY Lots of people will be offering you “practical” advice about a major and a career. You’ll be told to pick a hot field where the jobs will be or one where you can make a great deal of money. But no one knows for sure what those fields will be when you start your career. More importantly, no one who gives you this advice will have to get out of bed each day and go to the job they suggest for you. Only you will do that – and for your whole working career.

So what is the best advice? Choose to study something you love or you think you will love. If you’re not sure at all, and most high school students are not, pick a university that offers a lot of choices and does not force you into a single program right from the start.

That way you’ll have a chance to find the thing you’ll love to do for the rest of your life.

Remember that the real goal of education is not a job or money. The goal is living a good life and being happy in what you do every day.

Reach beyond youR highest expectations.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers more than 130 majors and has accessible professors who conduct research in the fields they teach. You’ll find many extracurricular and internship opportunities, too. At IUP, you’ll have everything you need to reach for your dreams.

IUP

iup.edu/promise 724-357-2230

not suRe if college is foR you?

E-mail promise-plus@ iup.edu to learn more about IUP Promise Plus, our program for students in the Pittsburgh Public Schools who want to learn more about college life.

26 spring 2012

PITTSBURGH’S NEIGHBORHOODS In this issue of Ideapod, we feature three Pittsburgh neighborhoods: Sheraden Crafton Heights West End

Photos by Josh Franzos

SHERADEN

idea pod 27

28 spring 2012

CRAFTON HEIGHTS

WEST END

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30 spring 2012

Promise fulfilled.

Rosedale Your future looksTech promising, and Penn State can open doors. Take advantage of all we offer to help you achieve your potential. > Twenty campuses and more than 160 majors for undergraduates > Tools for success: academic advising, career planning, internships, scholarships and other funding options > Leadership opportunities through a variety of student organizations > Resources for multicultural students: educational services, guidance, support Contact one of our campuses and take the first step toward fulfilling your promise.

penn state in WesteRn pennsYLVania Penn State Beaver Monaca, PA 724-773-3800, 877-JOIN-PSU beaver.psu.edu

Penn State Greater Allegheny McKeesport, PA 412-675-9010 ga.psu.edu

Penn State Erie, The Behrend College Erie, PA 814-898-6100, 866-374-3378 behrend.psu.edu

Penn State New Kensington New Kensington, PA 724-334-LION (5466) 888-968-PAWS (7297) nk.psu.edu

Penn State is committed to affirmative action, equal opportunity, and the diversity of its workforce.

Produced by the Penn State Department of University Publications U.Ed. ADV 12-08

Pittsburgh Community Recruitment Center Pittsburgh, PA 412-263-2900 E-mail: pghcrc@psu.edu

idea pod 31

raising

A GALA EVENT JOIN THE CELEBRATION! As the first class of Promise Scholars graduates, join us in celebrating their accomplishments by attending the Graduation Gala.

Graduation Gala With Keynote Speaker Sasha Heinz Thursday, June 14, 2012, 6:00 pm Stage AE

Graduation Gala Opportunities: Honor a 2008 Scholar by purchasing a virtual Promise Graduation Brick for $20.08.

(Promise Graduation Bricks will be displayed on our website from May 31st – August 31st.)

Invest in a Gala Sponsorship

(www.pittsburghpromise.org/benefits.html)

Attend the Graduation Gala

(tickets @ $250; tables @ $2,500)

For more information or to make your reservation or donation, please contact The Pittsburgh Promise at 412-281-7605 or go to www.celebratingthepromise.org.

1901 Centre Avenue Suite 204 Pittsburgh, PA 15219 www.pittsburghpromise.org

CONGRATULATIONS, PROMISE SENIORS!

“LIKE” our Dance-a-thon facebook page and be entered to win a $50 cash card!

facebook.com/igniting or scan with your phone

FPO